Two collectors are chasing me for the same debt
Being chased by more than one company for what looks like the same debt is confusing and stressful. It can usually be sorted out by checking the details.
This guide helps you
- Work out whether it's really the same debt
- Avoid paying twice for one debt
- Find out which company you should deal with
- Get free help to untangle it
6 min read
What's happening
Sometimes two companies appear to chase the same debt — perhaps because a debt was sold and records overlapped, or because of a mix-up. Occasionally it's actually two separate debts that look similar.
The way through is to gather details from each and compare carefully.
Your first steps
Pause payments until you understand the picture:
- Ask each company for the original creditor, account number, and amount in writing.
- Compare the details to see if it's genuinely one debt or two.
- Don't pay either until you know who has the right to collect.
Keep a record of every contact from both companies.
Step by step
- Get written details from each collector.
- Compare them — same creditor, account, and amount?
- Ask who currently owns the debt if it appears to be the same one.
- Hold off paying until ownership is clear.
- Get advice to avoid paying twice.
Your rights
You shouldn't have to pay the same debt twice. You can ask each company to prove their right to collect and to confirm in writing. If the situation isn't resolved, you can complain to an oversight body in our directory.
Where to get free help
This is exactly the kind of tangle a free financial counsellor can help unpick. Call the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007, and see our help centre for more guidance.
Key takeaways
- You should never have to pay the same debt twice.
- Get written details from each collector and compare them.
- Hold off paying until you know who has the right to collect.
- Free help to untangle it is on 1800 007 007.
Frequently asked questions
Why are two companies chasing the same debt?
It may be a record overlap after a debt was sold, a mix-up, or two similar but separate debts. Compare written details from each.
Who should I pay?
Don't pay until you've confirmed which company currently owns the debt and has the right to collect. Seek advice if it's unclear.
What if I've already paid one of them?
Keep your proof of payment and tell the other company. A financial counsellor can help if you're being chased for an amount you've paid.
This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Your situation is unique and rules can vary by state and over time — for advice on your circumstances, speak to a free financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007) or get legal help.
Know your options, know your rights
A free, plain-English guide to dealing with debt in Australia — and the people who can help.